The Chemistry of Plants and Insects

Abstract

This book is an illustrated introduction to the organic compounds that plants produce to either attract insects or to keep them away, as well as to the insects’ responses to the plant substances. Many insects obtain their nutrients by feeding on plants and have adapted to the chemistry of the host plants, sometimes using plant defenses for their own defense. Part 1 of the book focuses on the plant perspective, describing examples of organic compounds that plants have evolved in communication with insects. Part 2 centers on the insect perspective, first addressing the special chemistry of insects themselves, and then on the nutrients and defenses that insects obtain from eating plants. Part 3 addresses how interactions between plants and insects affect humans, be it as pollinators of crops or as invasive pests. The chemistry of some insect products, like honey, beeswax, and silk, is described. The book concludes with a discussion of various approaches to manage insect pests, including some of the chemistry involved and thoughts on the effects of the various methods on the environment.